How to Get Gap Insurance

Gap insurance is a type of insurance that covers the difference between what you owe on a car loan or lease and what the car is worth if it is totaled or stolen. This type of insurance can be extremely helpful if you owe more on your loan than your car is worth, which can happen if you purchased a new car with a small down payment or a long loan term. In this article, we will discuss how to get gap insurance.

What is Gap Insurance?

Gap insurance is designed to bridge the gap between what you owe on a car loan or lease and what the car is worth if it is totaled or stolen. For example, if you owe $20,000 on your car loan but your car is only worth $15,000, gap insurance will pay the $5,000 difference if your car is totaled or stolen.

Gap insurance can be especially helpful if you have a long car loan term or if you purchased a new car with a small down payment. In these situations, the value of your car may depreciate faster than you pay off your loan, leaving you with a gap between what you owe and what the car is worth.

How to Get Gap Insurance

There are several ways to get gap insurance:

Option
Description
Through the dealer
Many car dealers offer gap insurance as an add-on to a car loan or lease. This can be a convenient option, as you can purchase the insurance at the same time you purchase your car. However, dealer gap insurance can be expensive, so it’s important to shop around and compare prices.
Through your car insurance company
Your car insurance company may offer gap insurance as an add-on to your car insurance policy. This can be a convenient option, as you can bundle your gap insurance with your car insurance. However, it’s important to compare prices and make sure you’re getting a good deal.
Through a third-party provider
There are many third-party providers that offer gap insurance. This can be a good option if you want to shop around and compare prices. However, it’s important to do your research and make sure the provider is reputable.

FAQ

What does gap insurance cover?

Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on a car loan or lease and what the car is worth if it is totaled or stolen.

When do I need gap insurance?

You may need gap insurance if you owe more on your car loan or lease than your car is worth, which can happen if you purchased a new car with a small down payment or a long loan term.

How much does gap insurance cost?

The cost of gap insurance can vary depending on the provider and the value of your car. Dealer gap insurance can be expensive, so it’s important to shop around and compare prices.

How long does gap insurance last?

Gap insurance typically lasts for the length of your car loan or lease. However, some providers may offer shorter or longer coverage periods.

Can I cancel gap insurance?

Yes, you can usually cancel gap insurance at any time. However, it’s important to check with your provider to see if there are any cancellation fees or requirements.

In conclusion, gap insurance can be a valuable type of insurance if you owe more on your car loan or lease than your car is worth. There are several ways to get gap insurance, including through the dealer, your car insurance company, or a third-party provider. It’s important to shop around and compare prices to ensure you’re getting a good deal.